A large group of travellers have pitched up on the grounds of a Somerset school this week.

The principal of Stanchester Academy in Stoke sub Hamdon, near Yeovil, claims the travellers broke into the school through a side gate on Monday evening (August 7).

Amy Joynes, who is attending the school during the holidays to monitor the situation says they brought with them seven caravans, as well as two horses, and have set up a washing line and barbecues on the school grounds.

She said: "A large group of travellers broke onto the site on Monday (August 7) with the intention of staying at the far end of the school playing fields until Sunday (August 13).

"Both the police and I are liaising with the travellers daily and checking the site to ensure it remains in the condition it was when they arrived.

"I have been in contact with council members, the Academy solicitors, Marcus Fysh's office as well as the police to ensure we are doing everything possible to ideally move the group promptly and peacefully or to ensure the community and site are not affected by the arrival of the group.

"To date the police feel the group have not contravened enough breaches in the law to warrant police eviction although they have been offered an alternative site to use for their stay and the situation is being constantly monitored.

"I have shared information and police advice with the Academy’s neighbours and will continue to provide a presence and press for a prompt resolution until such a time as this is reached."

Avon and Somerset Constabulary has declined to comment on the situation.